7 of the most expensive degrees in the world

At $1.3 trillion, student-loan debt in the US exceeds car loans and even credit-card debt. But education is an investment for the future, or so the mantra goes. Students routinely pay hefty costs to come away with the diplomas they desire.

With that in mind, Business Insider rounded up some of the most costly degree programs around the world.

The programs span some of the expected categories, like medical degrees and MBAs, to less likely bachelor of arts programs and music degrees.

The prices listed below reference only tuition costs without room and board and other expenses.

Bard College -- $253,520 Bachelor of Music

The music major at Bard is typically five years and provides graduates with a bachelor of music degree as well as a bachelor of arts in a field other than music. It runs $253,520 for the five-year program.